Mardy Fish played his last pro tour match yesterday, and he went out a fighter. Fish and Feliciano Lopez played a grueling 5 set match that showed Fish in charge for the most part. We saw his iconic two-handed backhand hitting incredible passing shots and swinging volleys. When his first serve found the court, sometimes clocking in at 131 mph, Fish rarely lost the point. In the end, Fish’s body could not keep up and leg cramps were the main culprit to Fish’s unfortunate second round exit. While it was a sad ending, Fish’s last match had all of the heart and excitement that we had hoped for.
What’s next for Mardy Fish?
Jim Courier is pushing Fish to continue with doubles. Fish’s serve, forehand and net play are top notch, and he could have a long, lucrative career as a doubles player. But to no avail. When asked if he has any regrets retiring, Fish responds, “None.” He did what he wanted to do. He openly wrote about his mental health struggles. He overcame his demons on the court and ended his tennis career on his own terms. He is ready to move on with the next phase of his life full of family, golf, youth tennis, and his Children’s Foundation.
Congratulations, Mardy Fish! We will miss you on the pro tour. Thank you for all you have done for tennis, professional sports, and for all of us navigating through life.
